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Click here to view the objects comic

How are objects used to communicate? Objects are used by all of us. Some people use them intuitively with out knowing that they are using objects to communicate. Every time you hand someone their coat, or pick up the car keys for example, you communicate something to them. However, objects can be used very effectively in a more structured way to communicate too. What are Objects of Reference? The photo story below shows someone using a structured method of using objects, called 'Objects of Reference'. Objects of Reference refer to: a person(e.g. personal large key ring), an object (e.g. water spray for rain), a place(e.g. musical card for day service); or an activity (e.g. costume or towel for swimming). Have a look at the Resource and Ideas Bank for more details and photos. Objects of Reference are kept in together somewhere that is easily accessible e.g. a bag or box

Objects of Reference that are used at SMILE, Redlands.

Where are objects used to communicate?

Everywhere: at home as well as out and about

In all areas of daily living

Why are objects useful?

Objects are all around us and we use them every day. They can be more useful than speech, as words are a temporary sound. We can not hold onto words and take our time to hear them. They are gone.

Photos are also not accessible for everyone. Some people may have good eyesight but not able to make sense of the flat shiny pictures.

Objects of Reference are particularly useful for people experiencing profound and multiple learning difficulties, and people with a sight impairment.

Where can I find out how to put together Objects of Reference for someone?

The use of Objects of Reference must be closely monitored and taught and learnt in close liaison with other members who work and live with the person you are using the objects with. As such it is highly recommended to follow a day course in the use of Objects of Reference. Tony Jones (Pri-Liberator, http://www.pri-liberator.com) is the country’s leading expert and trainer on Objects of Reference (OoR). He has devised the use of OoR mainly for colleges.

For adults with learning disability in Oxfordshire, Tony Jones’ work tends to be adapted to our needs in the community and in day centres.

Open eye video (details from Slade House library, Oxford. Contact OTC for details.) Resource and Ideas Bank for innovative ideas people are using in Oxfordshire using sound and smell.

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December 2007

Jeffrey was one of our webstars. You can see his photo story above. He sadly passed away in 2007. He has left a grand legacy through his contribution to total communication, and his work continues to inspire and enrich peoples lives.

We are privileged to have known him.